With A Doing Of Kept Standards Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

It is becoming increasingly difficult,
To define these times we live in...
With a doing of kept standards that are valued.

Yesterday...
Anyone perceived to be out of their minds,
Were not given immediate empathy.
Or attracted the attention of debating psychologists,
Probing one's relationship with parents...
Who purchase them guns when they were young,
To teach them self defense but end up murdered.

While those minding their own business,
Are racially profiled and suspected of being too arrogant...
As they walked in suburban neighborhoods,
Where people are seen chasing each other butt naked.
Or peeking out of windows prepared to call 911,
If someone unknown happens to be visiting a neighbor...
With a choice to spend the night.

'I just saw a black man cross the street.
And wearing dreads, boots and a leather coat.
I don't believe he actually knocked on a door.
Was hugged and invited in.
Something is going on.
We should be pro-active about this.~

~Well...
Just don't stand there.
Call the police.
I'm teaching the children how to clean their weapons properly.~

It is becoming increasingly difficult,
To define these times we live in...
With a doing of kept standards that are valued.